Alcohol can have a profoundly damaging impact on an individual’s life. For many people struggling with alcoholism, it can lead to the collapse of careers and marriages, and contribute to a deepening spiral of depression. In some cases, alcohol may seem like a daily necessity for managing daily life, but it’s important to recognize that long-term alcohol dependence is far from functional.
Types of Alcoholics
There are two primary categories of alcoholics. The first are high-functioning alcoholics, who can regularly consume alcohol while still maintaining stability in their professional and personal lives. The second category is dysfunctional alcoholics, whose dependence on alcohol leads to the breakdown of their lives. While dysfunctional alcoholics are often easy to identify, high-functioning alcoholics can be more challenging to spot since they often manage to conceal their alcoholism effectively.
Despite appearing to have their lives together on the surface, high-functioning alcoholics may still face significant personal or professional issues. Being in a relationship with or caring for a high-functioning alcoholic can cause considerable psychological and emotional strain.
What is a High-Functioning Alcoholic?
High-functioning alcoholics may be more common than one might expect. Externally, they often appear to have their lives in order. Although they may consume alcohol excessively, they generally seem happy, sociable, and successful. However, this outward appearance masks the reality of their struggle with addiction. High-functioning alcoholics can be challenging to identify and address because they believe that if their problem isn’t visible to the world, it doesn’t exist. They may feel that as long as they are financially stable and appear to be thriving, there is no issue. Admitting to a problem can be difficult for high-functioning alcoholics, so recognizing certain signs can help determine if you or someone you know might be struggling with this condition.
They Impose Limits on Their Drinking
You may have observed this behavior in friends or even practiced it yourself. A high-functioning alcoholic might set specific restrictions on their drinking, such as “I only drink on weekdays” or “I’ll stick to beer tonight.” While these self-imposed limits can help prevent excessive drinking or bingeing, they might also be a way for the individual to convince themselves that they have control over their alcohol consumption.
They Ask for Help Covering Things Up
High-functioning alcoholism frequently involves enablers who inadvertently support the alcoholic’s behavior. For instance, the individual may regularly borrow money from friends or loved ones to finance their drinking habit. They might also make frequent excuses for their absences or require rides to and from various places. In some cases, they may need to be bailed out of legal trouble. High-functioning alcoholics are often only a step away from full-blown dysfunction, and it is typically the support of others that helps them maintain a facade of normalcy.
They Use Alcohol as a Coping Mechanism
Relying on alcohol to manage stress or address personal issues is a common indicator of a drinking problem. If someone frequently turns to alcohol to unwind after a demanding day at work or to cope with relationship difficulties, they may be facing a serious issue. Since alcohol is a depressant, using it to numb emotions and alleviate stress can lead to dependency. Even a few drinks each night to relieve tension can signal the beginning of a more significant alcohol dependency, so it’s important to stay alert.
They Isolate Themselves
This sign can be more subtle and harder to detect. Although a high-functioning alcoholic might appear sociable and outgoing in public, they often prefer to drink alone when they are not fulfilling social obligations like work or parties. They may spend their free time in a bar or drinking quietly at home, often preferring to be alone. In some cases, they might even restrict others from entering their home to avoid exposing their drinking habits.
They Drink for Every Situation
A high-functioning alcoholic often uses any occasion, from a night out to a casual office gathering, as an opportunity to drink excessively. What begins as social drinking can quickly escalate into a habit where alcohol is consumed for all kinds of situations—whether it’s starting the day, unwinding, or ending the evening. While alcoholism is commonly associated with heavy drinking, it can also start with moderate consumption at inappropriate times.
They Have a Split Personality
For many alcoholics, drinking serves as a way to manage their emotions and escape negative feelings. A high-functioning alcoholic might alternate between being inebriated and sober, creating a sense of split personality. This fluctuation between high and low states can result in noticeable mood swings. Over time, this emotional roller coaster can become increasingly intense, taking a significant toll on their well-being.
They Suffer Withdrawal Symptoms
While high-functioning alcoholics may appear to manage their lives well when under the influence, they often experience withdrawal symptoms as the effects of alcohol wear off. These symptoms can include anxiety, increased irritability, and fatigue. In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Even for high-functioning alcoholics, withdrawal can be notably uncomfortable and distressing, manifesting as anxiety and hostility.
How to Deal with a High-Functioning Alcoholic
If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to seek help promptly. Effective treatment can enable a successful recovery from alcohol dependency, leading to a sober, fulfilling life. The initial step in addressing high-functioning alcoholism is to determine whether a problem exists by using the signs mentioned earlier. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can explore the concept of an intervention and assess whether organizing one would be beneficial for your loved one.
Next Steps
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, addiction treatment centers are available to assist with detoxification, mental clarity, life restructuring, and ongoing support for recovery. While overcoming alcoholism can be challenging, Sunrise Recovery is dedicated to helping individuals achieve the life they envision. To discover more about our inpatient rehab program and the comprehensive services we provide, contact one of our committed admissions consultants today.
